In the introductory chapter, the rise and progress of these colonies have been briefly sketched; and, in the subsequent ones, their general condition has been more fully described. Of their future, hopeful views, I cannot but think, may be taken of improvement and advancement, without being too sanguine,—speculating on what is probable and practicable.

What are their advantages and disadvantages, and what are the measures likely to promote the one, and to remove or diminish the other? These are subjects well deserving of consideration and discussion; and if discussed temperately can hardly fail of being useful.

Sufficient, I apprehend, has already been stated, both generally and particularly of their advantages in relation to soil and climate, affording proof that they are second to none in their agricultural capabilities, not even to the most productive of the foreign colonies, which of late, with slave labour, have become their great rivals.

Their disadvantages or defects, those which are least doubtful have also been more or less adverted to: on account of their importance, even at the risk of some repetition, it seems desirable to recur to and consider them somewhat more in detail and in order.